Can you bring food on trains in Japan?

I realized that it was perfectly acceptable to bring food on the Shinkansen. In fact, it is a common practice. This is because the Shinkansen is a long-distance train, and it can be a long time between stops. So, if you are hungry, there is no need to worry about finding food on the train.



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There is a custom in Japan where most people do not eat food outside other than when in restaurants. However, when using the bullet train or the green car, you are permitted to eat food. Normal trains and people commuting using said trains do not permit the consumption of food whilst riding the train.

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If you bought a Japan Rail Pass in advance, it includes unlimited train rides on the Narita Express. If you're a little hungry, you can purchase food and drinks to enjoy en route as you relax and look forward to your stay in Japan. There is also a restroom that you can use to freshen up.

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Bringing Your Food Aboard You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars.

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Bringing Your Food Aboard You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations. However, you can only consume food and beverages purchased in Dining and Lounge Cars in those cars.

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There's also no cultural relevance that prohibits people from eating while walking. As long as you are following TPO guidelines, you should be good. While it's okay to eat while eating, it's not a common practice. Japanese people are mindful of having cleanliness and respect for public spaces.

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Travelers are permitted to bring a two-month (60 day) supply of any permissible over-the-counter medication, and an equivalent amount of vitamins. This also applies to contact lenses.

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Bringing Your Food Aboard You may bring your own food and beverages onboard for consumption at your seat or private Sleeping Car accommodations.

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People who live in Okinawa, Japan have a wise strategy when it comes to maintaining a healthy weight. They call it “hara hachi bu”, which means to stop eating when you are 80% full. Studies show that cutting back on calories can lead to better heart health, longevity, and weight loss.

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From full meals to more informal café service, many trains have one or more options for onboard dining. If you're not hungry now, you might hear your stomach rumbling after looking at our menus.

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Ideas for food to bring on 2-day train ride?
  • Packs of tuna.
  • Crackers, bagel, wrap, or some other kind of carb to eat with the tuna.
  • Vegetables such as celery sticks or carrots.
  • Fresh fruit such as bananas, oranges, apples.
  • Dried fruit, nuts, and/or homemade trail mix.


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Unless suggested by the organizer or recipient, plan to stay no more than 10-15 minutes when dropping off a meal. See our article on Should I Stay or Should I Go? If there are open calendar days after your delivery, make enough for leftovers. Freezable meals are also nice.

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